Kentucky CancerLink is a "grassroots" 501(c)3 non-profit whose mission is to reduce barriers to screening, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Kim BlakemanCertified Patient Navigator

A Day in the Life. . .

Each and every day, Kentucky CancerLink receives calls from across the state from patients with needs that range from helping make an appointment, encouragement to get a screening, transportation issues or also needs that one can hardly imagine.

I had the opportunity to work with a very nice lady to obtain a mammogram. During the interview process over the phone, I noticed that she had a "raspy" voice and I asked if she was a smoker. She said that she was and I told her about a lung cancer screening that had become available this year, the low dose CT scan. She met the qualifications and I worked with her to get her scheduled.

During a follow-up call with this client she said that her mammogram was clear but the lung screening detected nodules that were cancerous.

We talked through additional needs she might have that come along with a cancer diagnosis. I ensured that she had family and a support system and also discussed side effects from chemotherapy and how we could provide a wig if necessary.

It seems like people will avoid cancer screenings for fear of what might be discovered. Although in this situation, a stage 4 lung cancer was diagnosed, she was grateful for the knowledge so she could make arrangements and enjoy her time left with her family.

My role as a patient navigator isn't always easy, but at the end of the day my goal is to provide some measure of hope and comfort.

Blessings,

Kim

End of Year Donation

If you are looking for ways to give at the end of 2016, please consider Kentucky CancerLink. Your donation will provide support to Kentuckians in need of cancer screenings or on a cancer journey.

On October 20-21, 2016, the Kentucky CancerLink team attended the Patient-Centered Education & Research Institute's Conference, Developing The Gold Standard II: Bringing Value to patient Navigation and Certification.

We were able to be a part of several panels, along with other attendees, and discuss the importance of patient navigation. It's always a pleasure to spend time with others who have the similar goal of being an advocate for the patient.

Benefit Mobile

Shop and Give Back

Kentucky CancerLink has partnered with Benefit as a fundraising solution. It is free to members and free to Kentucky CancerLink. Benefit is a free iPhone or Android phone app that can be used to pay for your everyday purchases such as groceries, clothes, home goods, and more. You can pay on site at the store or online.

A portion of your purchase goes directly back to Kentucky CancerLink. Retailers include Lowe's, Amazon, Target, Starbucks, and many more! For instance, buy $300 worth of golf equipment at Callaway online, and $60 goes back to Kentucky CancerLink. Download the app and add Kentucky CancerLink as your beneficiary to start giving.

Find more information in the app or at
www.benefitmobile.com. Feel free to forward this email to family and friends. The more people who participate, the more funds we will raise! Thank you!!

Amazon Smile!

Visit
www.smile.amazon.org and select Kentucky CancerLink as the organization you'd like to support!

Use www.smile.amazon.org as you would normally use an Amazon account.

A percentage of eligible purchases will be donated to Kentucky CancerLink. Prime Members receive the same benefits!